Tesla is investing more than $1 billion in the construction of an in-house lithium refinery in Texas to increase the supply of battery-grade lithium hydroxide in North America and accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. The refinery will employ an acid-free refining method that eliminates the use of hazardous reagents and produces a useful byproduct of sand and limestone for construction materials. In addition to processing intermediate lithium feedstocks, including recycled batteries and manufacturing scrap, the facility will create nearly 1,000 construction jobs and employ more than 250 full-time employees in production, operations, and engineering roles. Tesla is also investing in education, apprenticeship, and internship programs in the area to build talent pipelines.
resource: https://esgnews.com/tesla-breaks-ground-on-new-texas-lithium-refinery/